Sam Smith, Maroon 5 on tap for iTunes Festival

The Associated Press

Posted:
07/21/2014 12:37:57 AM MDT

NEW YORK (AP) — Last year Sam Smith says he was a spectator at the iTunes Festival. This year, his view will be much improved — he'll be onstage.

The soulful newcomer is among those set to perform at the eighth annual event, held every night in September at The Roundhouse in London. Other acts announced Monday include Pharrell Williams, Maroon 5, Calvin Harris, David Guetta, Robert Plant, Blondie and Chrissie Hynde.

The iTunes festival is free for contest winners, and people worldwide can watch live or on demand via various Apple devices and iTunes. Past performers include Adele, Kanye West, Elton John, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and Paul McCartney.

Earlier this year, the iTunes Festival branched out to the United States for the first time with concerts in Austin, Texas, during the South by Southwest music festival.